Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has revoked the certificate of occupancy earlier issued to Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) and reclaimed the land for public health purposes.
Gatekeepers News reports that the decision follows mounting criticism from residents and the Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, who had condemned the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to pave the way for the museum project.
The revocation was announced barely a day after tensions flared at a preview exhibition held at the museum on Sunday, where loyalists of the Benin palace disrupted proceedings.
The event, attended by foreign dignitaries including ambassadors from the European Union and Germany, ended abruptly as guests exited under tight security.
According to a revocation order dated October 21, 2025, Okpebholo stated that the land formerly assigned to MOWAA — identified as Digital Plot No. 61977, Zone HI/A12/Ogboka, Benin City, Oredo Local Government Area, covering about 6.210 hectares — would be restored to its original function as a healthcare facility.
He explained that the move was made in the public interest and due to the lack of transparency surrounding the museum’s development.
In a statement issued through his aide, Fred Itua, the governor expressed surprise at the recent foreign delegation’s visit to Edo for MOWAA-related activities, insisting that his administration had not been informed beforehand.
He said, “Honestly, I wasn’t aware that such a gathering was going to take place; that’s the truth. The controversy surrounding MOWAA stems from the lack of openness by the previous government.”
Okpebholo further questioned the project’s evolution, saying, “It is curious how the project evolved from the Benin Royal Museum to the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), and now to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), without clarity or consultation with our revered traditional institution.”
The Governor disclosed that a committee had been established to review the project and provide recommendations.
Responding to the development, MOWAA’s management dismissed claims that it had sought ownership of Benin bronzes or attempted to undermine the Oba’s authority.
In its statement, the museum clarified that it never represented itself as the Benin Royal Museum for funding purposes and encouraged authorities to verify this with its donors.
It said, “MOWAA holds His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II (CFR), the Oba of Benin, in the highest esteem and continues to uphold deep respect for the Benin Throne.”
Phillip Henacho, the museum’s director, expressed sadness over the protests but maintained optimism for reconciliation. He said he hopes this moment can lead to renewed dialogue, engagement, and understanding, so that together we can realise the full potential of what MOWAA can represent for Nigeria and Africa at large.
